Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that combines creamy cheese goodness with the vibrant flavors of spinach and artichokes, then this Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese is just the ticket! This recipe has become one of my go-to favorites because it’s not only easy to whip up but also incredibly satisfying. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this dish brings everyone together around the table.

What makes this Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese extra special is its creamy texture and cheesy delight, making it a total crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly, so everyone can enjoy a hearty meal without missing out on flavor. Trust me; once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a cherished addition to your cooking repertoire!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have this delicious meal ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy cheese combined with nutritious spinach and artichokes.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!
• Comfort Food at Its Best: This dish is rich, satisfying, and perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave something warm and cheesy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best part about this Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese is that it uses simple, wholesome ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Gather these goodies to create a dish that’s not just tasty but also nourishing!

For the Sauce

• 3 TBSP salted butter
• 3 TBSP all-purpose flour
• 12 ounces evaporated milk
• 1 tsp. onion powder
• 1 tsp. garlic powder
• 2 tsp. minced garlic
• 2 tsp. kosher salt
• ½ tsp. freshly ground black pepper

For the Cheesy Goodness

• 8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
• 4 ounces shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 2 ounces shredded Parmesan cheese

For the Veggies

• 10 ounces frozen chopped spinach (thawed and drained of excess liquid)
• 12 ounces marinated (quartered artichoke hearts)

For the Pasta

• 16 ounces Casarecce pasta (penne or rigatoni would work too)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to play around with different ingredients or add your personal touch. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add Extra Veggies: Toss in some roasted red peppers or sautéed mushrooms for an additional flavor boost.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.
• Swap the Pasta Shape: Use any pasta shape you prefer—shells or fusilli would be delightful too!
• Cheese Lovers Delight: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or cheddar for unique flavors.

How to Make Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Prepare the Roux

In a large, shallow cast iron enamel pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the flour to create a roux. This step is essential because it helps thicken your sauce while adding a lovely depth of flavor as it cooks until lightly golden brown—about 2 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to boil. Don’t forget to salt it generously! It should taste like the ocean before adding your dry pasta. Cook until just under al dente; this ensures it will hold up well when mixed with the sauce later. Remember to reserve 1 cup of that cooking liquid before draining!

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Stir in the evaporated milk into your roux mixture until smooth—using a whisk here can help eliminate any lumps! Then add in the onion powder, garlic powder, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Give it a taste; adjusting seasoning now will ensure every bite is bursting with flavor.

Step 4: Combine Cheese and Veggies

Cook your sauce while stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly—around 3 minutes should do it! Stir in all but 2 handfuls of shredded cheese until melted, then fold in your thawed spinach and marinated artichokes. Don’t drain those artichokes—the marinade adds fantastic flavor!

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Now it’s time to mix everything! Stir in your cooked pasta until fully combined. If you feel like the sauce needs loosening up a bit, splash in some reserved pasta cooking liquid—it works wonders!

Step 6: Broil for Perfection

Top everything with that reserved cheese you set aside earlier and place it under the broiler for about 4 – 6 minutes. Keep an eye on it as you wait for that cheese to melt, bubble up, and turn golden brown! Serve immediately for maximum cheesiness.

Enjoy this delicious Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese—it’s sure to become a new favorite for cozy dinners at home!

Pro Tips for Making Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese

Creating the perfect Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese is all about the little details that can elevate this comforting dish. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your mac and cheese turns out fabulously every time!

• Use high-quality cheese: The flavor of your mac and cheese greatly depends on the cheese you choose. Opting for freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded will provide a creamier texture and richer taste.

• Don’t skip the pasta cooking water: This starchy liquid is a secret weapon! Adding a splash helps adjust the consistency of your sauce, making it creamier without losing flavor.

• Experiment with spices: While the recipe includes onion and garlic powder, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne or paprika for a hint of warmth. This extra layer of flavor can make your dish truly stand out.

• Broil for the perfect finish: Broiling at the end gives your mac and cheese that irresistible golden-brown crust. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning!

• Make it ahead: This dish can be made in advance and stored in the fridge before baking. Just reheat in the oven when you’re ready to serve – perfect for meal prep or entertaining!

How to Serve Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese

Presenting your Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese beautifully can enhance the experience for you and your guests. Here’s how you can serve up this delightful dish!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of bright green parsley adds freshness and color, contrasting nicely with the creamy mac and cheese.
• Red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, offering red pepper flakes on the side allows individuals to customize their spice level.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread pairs perfectly with mac and cheese, allowing you to scoop up every last cheesy bite.
• Caesar Salad: A light Caesar salad adds a refreshing crunch that complements the richness of the mac and cheese beautifully.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like broccoli or Brussels sprouts not only enhance the nutrition but also add vibrant colors to your plate.
• Steamed Green Beans: Simple yet elegant, steamed green beans provide a crisp texture that balances out this creamy dish.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese will surely impress everyone at your table! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time, ensuring you have a delicious and comforting meal ready to go whenever you need it.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy your mac and cheese within 3 to 5 days for the best flavor and freshness.

Freezing

• Allow the mac and cheese to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer it into a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just label it with the date!

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of milk to keep it creamy.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful dish!

Can I make Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and choose gluten-free pasta.

How do I add more flavor to my Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese?

Feel free to enhance your mac and cheese with additional spices like cayenne pepper or smoked paprika. You could also mix in sun-dried tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms!

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen in my Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese?

Yes! Fresh spinach can be used; just ensure it’s thoroughly washed, chopped, and sautéed for a few minutes until wilted before adding it to your dish.

What types of cheese work well in Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese?

While this recipe uses mozzarella, Monterey Jack, and parmesan, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or gouda for different flavors!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese as much as I do! It’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavors that will delight your taste buds. Whether you’re preparing it for family dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this dish is sure to bring smiles around the table. So grab those ingredients, get cooking, and savor every cheesy bite!